Darwin Chambers Company can renovate or refurbish reach-in chambers and rooms from a variety of manufacturers for a wide array of applications. With documented experience turning out-of- specification/older/poorly designed systems into validated stability chambers, Darwin Chambers can provide solutions when all-new construction is neither feasible nor recommended. Controlled environment rooms that do not meet uniformity (or other) requirements can often be retrofitted with newer equipment, controls, or design changes in order to meet specifications that, in many instances, greatly exceed the OEM requirements. Whether the project is a drywall/stick-built 25°C/60% ICH room, or a 20-year- old panelized room provided by a manufacturer that is no longer in business, solutions can be implemented to vastly increase reliability, accuracy, uniformity, and efficiency. Utilizing newer technologies and designs, many of the problems inherent in older systems such as: condensation, inefficient steam boilers, insufficient air-flow, inadequate insulation, poor wiring, leaking refrigeration components, poor controls, etc. can be eliminated. Upon completion of work, documentation, warranties, performance, efficiency, and peace of mind will be provided to take the place of what is often a huge headache. Here are a few examples of the solutions we offer: 4" insulated panel rooms: In most cases, near to brand-new results can be obtained with the addition of our systems and controls. The result is often a quick turn-around time, cost savings, and excellent performance. Drywall/stick-built rooms: It is possible in some cases to increase performance and to comply with FDA/GMP /ICH standards. While this style of construction is by no means the best, nor the recommended method to maintain tight temperature and humidity requirements, some performance specifications can be met with the correct application of newer equipment and controls. Darwin Chambers has the proven capability to take rooms that are often giant problems and turn them into sustainable solutions that meet your specific needs. Older reach-in chambers: Often, the enclosures are in good condition, but the equipment is very out-of- date. Darwin Chambers can modify and/or replace any components necessary to meet requirements. Typical changes include: newer refrigeration systems, thermoelectric cooling, ultrasonic humidification, dehumidifying/drying systems, PID controls, alarms, connectivity, security enhancements, etc. Custom chambers: Specification and design assistance services are available to enable custom enclosures, and to meet more stringent requirements. Darwin Chambers technicians and engineers are experienced with a wide variety of control applications, and are available to provide any level of assistance needed. Chamber Validation Services Validation/Qualification services typically include single point validation, documented validation protocol specific to (each) chamber, and execution of the protocol. Personalized protocols are encouraged. The Darwin Advantage All installed instrumentation is calibrated to NIST traceable standards and provided with a calibration form. In-house, factory calibrations are performed using state-of-the-art equipment with great accuracies. These reports are three-point verifications, traceable calibration documents. Downloads Download Brochure Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Room Renovations What Renovations Can Be Made to an Environmental Room? Renovating an environmental room involves making modifications or improvements to enhance its functionality and efficiency. The following are some common renovations to an environmental room: Temperature & Humidity Control Systems Upgrade: Upgrading the heating, ventilation, and cooling systems to improve temperature and humidity control. This could include installing more energy efficient systems, adding or replacing humidification or dehumidification capabilities, or installing advanced control technologies like Virtual Touchscreens-VTS. Air Filtration & Purification Systems Enhancements: Enhancing air filtration and purification systems to improve air quality and remove airborne contaminants. This may involve adding carbon filters or incorporating ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to maintain a cleaner/healthier environment. Energy Efficiency Improvements: Implementing energy-efficient upgrades to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. This could include installing energy-efficient lighting solutions, upgrading insulation to minimize heat loss or gain, or integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels or geothermal heating and cooling systems. Surface Materials & Finishes Replacement: Replacing surface materials and finishes with more durable and contamination-resistant materials. This may mean installing smooth, non-porous surfaces that are resistant to microbial growth, corrosion, or chemical damage. Accessibility & Safety Improvements: Enhancing accessibility and safety features to improve user experience and comply with regulatory requirements. This may include installing ergonomic fixtures, adding safety interlocks or emergency shut-off systems, or retrofitting with accessibility features like ramps or lifts for disabled team members. Modular Design & Scalability: Designing the environmental room with modular components and scalable infrastructure to accommodate future expansions or changes in requirements. This allows for flexibility and adaptability to evolving needs and technologies without compromising integrity or requiring future renovations. What Can Cause the Need for Environmental Room Renovations? Many rooms and chambers operating on older systems, that can’t be completely replaced for whatever reason, can be retrofitted with newer technologies and designs. Some of the problems that lead to renovations may include: Condensation Insufficient Air-Flow Inefficient Steam Boilers Inadequate Insulation Poor Wiring Leaking Refrigeration Components Poor Controls Are There Any Regulations For Environmental Room Renovations? Design guidelines for environmental room renovations can vary depending on room classification, room/chamber usage, and product manufacturing. The components of an environmental room must satisfy local and national building regulations for fire protection and structural design. Materials have to meet minimal flame and smoke development requirements or have fire separation walls. As part of the overall design, all environmental room and finish renovations should meet project-specific health and safety requirements, state and/or local building codes, and local seismic codes.